New Redruth couple cherishes 60th anniversary

A New Redruth couple, Frank and Violet Castelyn, have stood side by side for a milestone of 60 years of married life.

Frank, who recently turned 83, and Violet (79) have been living in Alberton for over 45 years. The pair has lived and worked in Johannesburg South for most of their lives.

When the couple met in the early 60s, it was love at first sight. They officially tied the knot on December 9, 1961.
They met in 1959 when Frank came to visit a mutual friend and from there on, they were certain that they wanted to spend the rest of their lives together.

In an exclusive interview, the pair told the RECORD they have seen so much development in Alberton over the years.

Throughout the years, they have shared many wonderful memories.

“We would attend plays at the Alberton Civic Centre. During our leisure time, we would take the bus and go to the zoo. And we both enjoyed raising our son. We have seen a lot of change in Alberton throughout the years. When you would go up to South Crest you would only see a veld,” said Frank.

Frank, who was well-known throughout Alberton back in the day, worked as a traffic inspector for 18 years, while Violet worked in Thulisa Park for 17 years.

They waited 14 years before having their son, Sean, who is 46. The couple also has two grandchildren who are very close to their hearts.

Violet said when she first met her husband in the 60s, they immediately connected, and for all these years nothing has changed.

“We thank God for getting us to this age so that we can celebrate these many years of being together. Although we have had our ups and downs, we have always stood together and tackled everything with prayer,” she said.

The pair is fondly known for their kindness and for taking time in their busy schedules to lend a helping hand to the less fortunate.

“When the pandemic surfaced, we had no income, no medical aid or pension fund. But many good people came to our house offering food and money, people we have never met before. I think it’s because we were good to them. During Christmas time, we would often go around handing out hampers,” said Violet.

The couple also told the RECORD their relationship has been founded on love, communication and mutual respect. And that has forever been their recipe for a prosperous relationship.

They echoed they will continue loving each other for more years to come.